Harlan Baker Hosts Fundraiser for Short Play “Gran Via”

A letter asking for support for “Gran Via” and other short plays about the Spanish Civil War.

Harlan Baker is an actor and theatre professor at the University of Southern Maine. He has directed for several Portland area theatres including Acorn Productions, Schoolhouse Arts and the Crowbait Club. He is also a former contributor to the West End News. His latest play is “Gran Via” about the Spanish Civil War.

Dear Neighbors,

I’m reaching out to ask for your support for the “Gran Via” and other short plays about Spain. I am hosting a Spanish Wine and Cheese reception on Friday April 29th, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the mezzanine of the People’s United Bank Building (465 Congress Street). I am raising money to help with the expenses of producing these plays both in Spain and at the Portfringe Festival in June in Portland.

There has been a renewed interest in the Spanish Civil War both in Spain and here in the United States. This wasn’t just an internal civil conflict. It was a dress rehearsal for World War II with the participation of Italy and Germany on the side of Franco and volunteers from around the world who rallied to the side of the Spanish Republic — including 6000 Americans. Many of these Americans would later be brought before the House on Un-American Activities Committee.

I have written three short plays set during this conflict. They will receive a staged reading in Madrid on May 26th with a cast of Spanish actors. They will have a full production in this June’s Portfringe Festival with a cast of local actors.

To help offset the expenses for these productions I’m asking for your support.

Please attend the April 29th fundraiser and donate what you can. If you cannot attend but wish to be there in spirit or help- you can go to the following site and donate on my indiegogo campaign.